The term would be used to describe any compound - natural or synthetic - that would posses cognitive enhancing abilities in terms of improved memory, learning, and focus, while also being non-toxic, and have very low rate of side effects. For something to be nootropic, it would also have to be neuroprotective (protect the brain from physical and chemical stressors).

In this article, I will be focusing on natural nootropics, the stuff that occurs in plants and foods, excluding the synthetic stuff like racetams, Modafinil, Adderall, Ritalin, and other prescription "smart drugs".

So here are your five best natural nootropic compounds:

#5. Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri (water hyssop, Brahmi), is an adaptogenic herb commonly used in the Indian herbal medicine; Ayurveda.

Even though its an Indian ancient herb, there's Western studies showcasing its effect at improving cognitive abilities.

Overall, Bacopa Monnieri has good scientific evidence supporting its use as a memory and learning booster, but the effects aren't acute, and most studies note the largest improvements after 2-weeks of use.

#4. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea (Roseroot), is a herb that grows in the extremely harsh conditions of Siberia and northern Scandinavia.

Rhodiola was traditionally used by Vikings for promotion of physical vigor.

When it comes to cognitive stuff, choline is the raw material of the brain neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is necessary for the processing of information within various areas of the brain. The cholinergic system is most commonly linked to improved attention, arousal, and motivation.

The three most commonly supplemented forms of choline include;

Choline bitartrate - for overall replenishment of bodily choline, this salt-bound form of choline is commonly used.

Alpha-GPC -Alpha-glycerophosphocholine is phospholipid that contains choline. Being fat-soluble it's can easily cross the blood-brain barrier.

CDP-Choline - Citicholine as its often called, is choline and uridine bound together by two phosphate groups. Similar actions as alpha-GPC.

If you haven't supplemented with choline before, I suggest starting from choline bitartrate to take care of the possible deficiency first, and then possibly adding in either Alpha-GCP or Citicholine for better absorption to the brain.

#1. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a naturally occurring component of the cell membranes. Estimated 60 grams of PS resides in various pools within the human body, and roughly half of that exists in neural tissue.

It's a fat-soluble structure with with both serine and phosphatic acid taking the place of two fatty-acids in its structure.